Customs Comptroller reaffirms collaboration with NSCDC to combat security challenges in Oyo

The Customs Area Controller of the Oyo/Osun Command, Comptroller Joseph Olugbuyi Adelaja, has reaffirmed the existing collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) which is aimed at fighting against security challenges in their areas of operations.

Comptroller Adelaja stated this on Tuesday when he, accompanied by principal officers of the Command, paid a courtesy visit to the Oyo Command of the NSCDC in its Ibadan headquarters.

In his address, Comptroller Adelaja, according to a statement by the Public Relations Officer, ASC Abdulmalik Abiodun Akintola, acknowledged the NSCDC’s dedication to safeguarding national assets, ensuring public safety, and maintaining peace and security across the nation.

Saying that both agencies share a common goal of protecting the nation’s interests and ensuring the safety of its citizens, the Oyo/Osun Customs Area Controller noted that the purpose of the visit was to strengthen the existing synergy between the two security agencies.

He commended the NSCDC’s commitment to safeguarding critical infrastructure and combating vandalism, noting that its dedication complements the efforts of the Nigeria Customs Service in securing the nation’s borders and enhancing lawful trade activities.

Comptroller Adelaja outlined the core functions of the NCS which include revenue generation, facilitation of legitimate trade, and suppression of smuggling.

He acknowledged that the combined efforts of both agencies are crucial to achieving optimal security and promoting lawful trade across the country.

He also spoke on the importance of enhancing collaboration between the agencies in areas such as intelligence sharing, capacity building, and public sensitisation.

Responding, the NSCDC Commandant, Mr Augustine Padonu, appreciated the visit, reiterating the cordial relationship between the two agencies and assuring the Customs Area Controller of leveraging on it.

Speaking further, the NSCDC Commandant noted the importance of intelligence sharing and operational consolidation in enhancing the discharge of the primary duties of both agencies.

He also spoke on the need to sensitise the junior rank officers of both agencies on the need to shun unhealthy rivalry that usually occurs, as both agencies share a common goal of protecting members of the public and safeguarding the nation’s borders.